Mark Lee
Singapore
“I understand the intent behind the early notification, to better support displaced workers. I have two clarifications, if I may. Based on past data, most workers take a few months to secure the next job.”
“Lastly, I would also like to ask whether the agency will consider publishing a service charter, setting out expected response times, processing timelines, escalating channels and sector points of contact. For SMEs in particular, delays in approvals or unclear responses can directly affect hiring, training and transformation decisions.”
“Will the Government consider recalibrating existing financing schemes, such as the Enterprise Financing Scheme and where relevant, the Long-Term Investment Fund and the Private Credit Growth Fund to better support SMEs facing such short-term liquidity pressures, particularly those managing volatility driven costs, or even firms that want…”
“I thank the Minister of State for the clarification. I think there are many times that she has mentioned that investigations are still underway and details are still unclear.”
“Thank you, Chairman. The Acting Minister has mentioned about the IPS survey and the survey actually indicates that younger Singaporeans are more likely to report feelings of social isolation, and more than half say that they find it easier to interact online than face-to-face.”
“As such, beyond delivering strong individual initiatives, how is the Ministry intentionally shaping a coherent narrative of what defines us as Singaporeans today, one that builds confidence in our multicultural identity and a shared sense of belonging, especially amongst younger Singaporeans?”
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“The proposed bill seeks to double Government-Paid Paternity Leave (GPPL), Government-Paid Paternity Benefit (GPPB) and Unpaid Infant Care Leave (UICL) from 1 January 2024. Businesses appreciate the pragmatic approach taken with GPPL enhancements, such that the Government will reimburse companies for the additional two weeks of paternity leave taken by employees and implementation by companies will be voluntary for a start. Paid paternity leave entitlements vary worldwide, ranging from zero days in the USA to over 50 weeks in Japan and South Korea, though usage often falls short of what is allowed. Singapore's calibrated increase in paid paternity leave reflects the pragmatic approach to reinforcing our social compact through healthy familial bonds and progressive workplace practices, all while maintaining economic vitality in a tight labour market. Mr Speaker, let me now continue in Mandarin. (In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] The Government and businesses care about the well-being of employees and their families. Besides paternity leave, businesses also must navigate the challenges of nurturing employees' skills, promoting career advancement and fostering social emotional well-being, all the while maintaining the operational efficiency in a demanding operating environment. Singapore's economy will continue to face strong headwinds ahead. We narrowly avoided a technical recession in the previous quarter and the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) has reduced the upper bound of 2023's GDP growth of Singapore from 2.5% to 1.5%. The recently released Singapore Business Federation (SBF) Manpower and Wage Survey indicates that businesses expect that economic conditions will remain weak, with increased business costs as their top challenge.”
“Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise in support of this Bill. As a father of three children, with the youngest being just 14 months old, I am intimately acquainted with the immense joy and profound responsibility that parenthood gives to us. Within my household, I have proudly taken on the role of the elected or rather, nominated vaccination officer, ensuring my youngest daughter attends all her vaccination appointments. There is no privilege greater than cradling our little ones in our arms, offering comfort when they are gripped by fear and pain, especially after the prick of that daunting vaccination needle. In such moments, we are starkly reminded of the irreplaceable role that parents play in their children's lives. Overwhelming scientific evidence reinforces the importance of active father involvement in a child's life. Esteemed institutions, like the "Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry" have convincingly demonstrated that children, particularly during their infancy, reap immense benefits from the presence and engagement of their fathers. Their cognitive, emotional and social development receives a substantial boost, laying a strong foundation for their future. Beyond the personal joys and individual benefits, the father-child bond holds profound implications for our society as a whole. It moulds the future we are shaping for our children and the society they will inherit. Mr Speaker, Sir, the business community champions the family unit as integral to the fabric of society. Policies that support parenthood enhances socio-economic resilience and maturity, which are fundamental to a thriving economy anchored by vibrant businesses and a productive workforce.”